Question

The pH of an ideal 0.10 M NaHCO3 solution is 8.31. In the list of bases, HCO3- is shown as being a better base than the OAc- ion. Show the calculation of the pH of a 0.10 M NaOAc solution. Then explain why the NaOAc solution is more basic than the corresponding NaHCO3 solution.

Answer 1

Given the of an ideal 0.1 M solution is 8.31.

To calculate the of NaOAC.

Let the initial concentration of  

Equilibrium constant for the above reaction which is basic is

We also know that the value of is

  

Now   

  

     

now as because of weakly ionized base

As we can see of NaOAC is greater than Sodium bicarbonate which suggests that NaOAC is the stronger base.

NOTE: Salt of a strong acid and weak base is acidic. Salt of a weak acid and strong base is basic.